Mining in focus
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New TLT-Turbo fans to be installed underground .
Many functions of an underground ventilation system , including the fans , can be automated . much-talked-about topic in the ventilation fraternity has been what is termed ventilation on demand ( VoD ). “ Mining companies are trying to transition from ventilating all the underground workings 24 hours a day in all sections , whether there is work being done in that area or not . VoD suggests that air will be supplied only to working areas where there is a need to do so ,” says Mochubele .
When a new mine looks at ventilation , it can introduce several measures that will ensure efficiency . New software programs are integral to the planning process . Furthermore , Mochubele suggests practical means to improve the ventilation system . “ One way of being more efficient is to reduce the average speed in an upcast shaft to between 18 and 22 metres per second ( m / s ),” he says . When developing a new mine , Mochubele advises that the speed of air in the shaft can be reduced to such an extent that it is above the critical velocity of air , which is between 7.5 and 11m / s .
Unfortunately , critical improvements on the ventilation system can only be done during the planning phase , when the length , shape , lining , and size of the tunnels are still being designed . Once it is designed and implemented , it is difficult to improve or change the system . Mochubele says that the mining industry needs to embrace the introduction of communication systems and remote controlling of fans , ventilation doors , and vehicles , as they will go a long way in reducing ventilation cost from the start , which will have a positive impact on the operation in the long term .
Ventilation attracts attention
It is encouraging that Wits is devoting the necessary attention to mine ventilation to empower future mine managers . According to Mochubele , third-year students are given projects on VoD . “ Our aim is to produce future mining engineers who understand optimisation of ventilation systems . We are currently working with the Mine Ventilation Society of South Africa to develop an NQF level six qualification in order to address the shortage of ventilation specialists in the industry . We are also looking at the future mine and the role of ventilation in ultra-deep mines . Therefore , we are encouraging students to undertake postgraduate studies in mine ventilation ,” says Mochubele .
Technology , research , and innovation will play an increasingly key role in the development and improvement of airflow and ventilation systems in underground
[ 24 ] MINING MIRROR JULY 2018